Where and how to find inspiration?

Inspiration is one of those things, which often strikes you when you least expect it, but at times you really need some...it seems to be hiding in places your mind and body cannot possibly reach. Whether it is for a school or work project, an artwork or Thursday’s dinner, true inspiration makes any of these so much better and more enjoyable. However, once the deadline approaches (or you become more and more hungry) inspiration tends to jump right out of the window. Now, one could panic, but better yet, one could follow these simple tips and tricks we have prepared to get you (and your inspiration) back on track.

Take a walk. Go outside, be it rainy or sunny. Breathe. Let your mind wonder about the beauty of nature, its colors and sounds. Try to find a piece of nature even in big cities, or even better go to the seaside. Let the wind take away your stress and relax. Chances are, by the end of your walk you will be running home to get started on new things as your mind will be full of endless possibilities.

Go offline. Nowadays we are constantly bombarded with texts and images, and videos online, and while you might think that all of these will bring you inspiration for your project, most of the time it’s counterintuitive. The huge saturation of information is very likely to make you overwhelmed. Everything is already there, you start to think, making it only harder to let your mind come up with something creative. Turn off your computer, turn off your phone and stare at a blank wall if you will. Now your mind will have space for new ideas, and it will want to create its own pretty scenery. And that’s what we call inspiring.

Have a drink. It is no secret that caffeine can be very stimulating, so a cup of cappuccino or black tea can easily give you the push you’ve been looking for. Even better, if you can manage to leave your regular work space and go to a coffee shop, which oftentimes gives you the opportunity of people watching. People are inspiring and it is a winning combination, coffee and people. While we are at the topic of drinks, a glass of wine is also a great way to get your ideas flowing. Make sure you don’t overdo it, though, because in that case your ideas might not seem nearly as great the next morning.

Have an inspiration bank. It is always a great idea to do things in advance. Make a journal or a scrapbook with anything that makes your soul happy. Collect memories and dreams, which let your mind go off to happy places. Pinterest boards work great, too, as long as you are able to stop yourself from reading every self-help article you come across. Chances are you will be able to borrow some inspiration from your bank, when you most need it.

Talk with someone. For some people it can be extremely helpful to stop your mind’s monologues (which mostly focus on topics, such as, “I can’t do this” and “I will never get this done”), and find a person or a group of people, who could listen to your frustrations (keep this short!) and brainstorm with you. Sometimes all you need is to simply talk it out. Things make more sense that way, and ideas start to form more naturally.

See, inspirations is a very abstract term, but that doesn’t mean you have to helplessly wait until it strikes. Try some of these tips, or all of them at the same time, and your mind will thank you for the extra kick!